2012 U.S. Open Player Previews: Juan Martin del Potro

We profile 12 of the top title contenders at the 2012 U.S. Open.

We’ve sometimes felt obliged to include del Potro in our lists of major title contenders—despite numerous injury-related setbacks, he’s the only player besides Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to win a Slam since 2006. But lately, the Argentine has re-established himself as a bona fide threat to the tour’s elite, and seems poised for a second breakthrough performance. Why not at the place where he first stole the stage, Flushing Meadows? The 2009 champ, now No. 8 in the rankings, has reached the semis in eight of the 14 tournaments he’s played in 2012, most recently Cincinnati, by far the most demanding tune-up this summer. But most notable was his final-four finish at the Olympics, where he took bronze after losing an epic to Federer, 19-17 in the third set. A loss, yes, but one that signaled del Potro’s true return to significance.

Why He’ll Win:

With Rafael Nadal out of the picture, the non-“Big 3” have a big opportunity. Del Potro’s massive hitting is most rewarded in Queens, and he’s been on the cusp of a giant result for some time.  

Why He Won’t:

Del Potro’s high-risk game has perhaps lost him as many titles as he’s won. The big man has come up woefully short in some important matches throughout his career.  

Bottom Line:

As good as he is from the baseline, del Potro can do himself a favor by serving with similar authority. Stamina is paramount: He needs to be able to win his early-round matches with relative ease.

More U.S. Open Player Previews:

**Roger Federer

Novak Djokovic  

Andy Murray  

David Ferrer  

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga  

Juan Martin del Potro**

**Victoria Azarenka

Agnieszka Radwanska  

Maria Sharapova  

Serena Williams  

Petra Kvitova  

Samantha Stosur**